Proximity

Easy-going Opononi and nearby Omapere are places to live the beach life, catch a few fish and zoom down the giant dunes of the Hokianga.

Arai Te Uru Recreation Reserve, Northland & Bay of Islands

By Ben Gertzfield

Sandboarding at Opononi sand dunes, Northland & Bay of Islands

By Northland Inc

Fishing from Omapere Wharf, Northland & Bay of Islands

By Catherine Langford

Omapere Beach, Northland & Bay of Islands

By Tourism New Zealand

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Opononi and its twin settlement Omapere provide a slice of beachside living in the heart of the Hokianga Harbour. You’ll find a choice of places to stay, from motels and resort-style beachfront units to private holiday cottages that can be rented for almost any duration. A white sand beach stretches all the way to Opononi Wharf, where you can catch a water taxi to the giant sand dunes on the other side of the harbour. Dune surfing on boogie boards is a thrill that leaves you sandy but extremely satisfied. Fishing trips can also be arranged at the wharf. Opononi was made famous in the mid 1950s by the tame dolphin Opo, who used to let children ride on his back.